Keynesian Economics

Keynesian economics, also called Keynesianism, is named for economist John Maynard Keynes. His 1936 book "General Theory of Employment, Interest, and Money" explored the principles of Keynesian economics. Unlike classical economics, which views the economic process as based on continuous improvements in potential output, Keynesian economics asserts the importance of the aggregate demand for goods as the driving factor, especially in downturns. Keynesian economics advocates government intervention, or demand-side management of the economy, to smooth out the bumps in business cycles and achieve full employment and stable prices. To stimulate the economy according to Keynesian economics, government intervention takes the form of government spending and tax breaks. To curb inflation, Keynesian economics believes government should cut spending and raise taxes.